Knoxville's Picnic Guide
With April and May’s gorgeous weather brings ample opportunity for al fresco dining. And while Knoxville’s patios beckon, so too do Knoxville’s parks, of which there are many. Whether sipping and snacking is the main event or you’re refueling after a dip in Augusta Quarry, we’ve scouted everything you need for an inspired and locally-sourced picnic, from our favorite parks to must-pack essentials. Enter the Knoxville picnic guide.
WHERE TO PICNIC
Where in Knoxville to picnic…
FORT DICKERSON PARK
3000 Fort Dickerson Road | Enjoy an interactive a Civil War Fort, pristine quarry lake, and over four miles of multi-use trails before settling down for a picnic with views of downtown Knoxville. Note: Two parking areas at Fort Dickerson, the upper entrance of Chapman offers the closest access to the Fort, whereas the lower Augusta Avenue entrance provides easy access to the quarry lake.
KNOXVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN & ARBORETUM
2743 Wimpole Avenue | Located on 47 acres of former Howell Nurseries, Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum features walking trails, display gardens, and unique and historic horticulture. Open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it’s the perfect place for a weekday picnic.
LAKESHORE PARK
5930 Lyons View Pike | With 185 acres of gorgeous greenery, Lakeshore Park offers plenty of places for a picnic — with unrivaled views of the Smokies, to boot! Throw down a blanket under a tree at the HGTV Overlook or grab a table at the Riverview Picnic Shelter by the baseball fields. Editor Note: Save the date for Lakeshore Park’s Third Annual Summer Picnic on June 17th!
SEVEN ISLANDS STATE BIRDING PARK
2809 Kelly Lane, Kodak | Located along the French Broad, Seven Island’s 416 acres features a diverse natural landscape of aquatic and grassland habitats home to over 190 species of birds. The wildlife refuge makes for great hiking and wildlife observation, best followed by a hearty picnic.
SUTTREE LANDING PARK
901 Langford Avenue | Located on the shoreline of the Tennessee River in South Knoxville, Suttree Landing Park offers expansive views of downtown, a riverside boardwalk, and open spaces. Grab provisions from Sevier Avenue dining spots to complement the views.
THE COVE AT CONCORD PARK
11808 South Northshore Drive | The Cove at Concord Park boasts access to Fort Loudon Lake for paddling, fishing, and a swimming beach (rentals available at River Sports Outfitters during summer months), as well as a playground, volleyball, shoreline walks, a series of paved loops, and multi-use trails. Set up for a picnic on multiple picnic tables or spread out on the beach for a shoreside snack.
WORLD’S FAIR PARK
525 Henley Street | Home to the Sunsphere and local-favorite festivals, World’s Fair Park also welcomes urban picnics in its sprawling green spaces. Enjoy a picnic on the Festival Lawn or Performance Lawn before or after letting little ones cool off on the Splash Pad.
WHAT TO PACK
Local favorites to shop for your picnic provisions…
Bob’s Wine is a must-stop for picnic libations — whether you opt for bubbles or beer. See what’s in store…
For ultra luxe picnics at private venues, tap By the Tracks for catering. Think elevated, delicious fare and zero hassle. Inquire…
Recruit Scouted Photographer, Caroline Trotter, to capture the experience. Inquire…
Cheese Boss creates the most delightful cheese and charcuterie boards, which make for the perfect picnic snack. Plus, their snack packs, filled with cheese, fruit, meat, and crackers, are easy to transport. Order online…
For a pizza picnic party, A Dopo Pizza is our favorite. Order to go…
MW Events has perfected luxury picnics, and whether you opt to have them created an elevated setting in your backyard or one of our scouted picnic spots, they’ll design a darling setup. Inquire…
WHAT TO WEAR
What to wear on your picnic in Knoxville according to local boutiques…
Enjoy your Knoxville picnic and don’t forget to tell the local businesses you tap that Scout sent you!
